What specific factors or experiences motivated you to select the UTHSC Community-Based Pharmacy Residency Program as your preferred pathway?
I was drawn to the UT Health Science Center Community-Based Pharmacy Residency Program because of its varied rotation offerings, which provide a well-rounded experience in multiple aspects of patient care. I have a strong passion for delivering direct patient care in the community setting, while also appreciating the logistical and operational components involved in managing patient needs. This program’s combination of retail, medication therapy management, transitions of care, and direct patient care aligns closely with my professional interests and career goals. I also value the program’s flexibility, which allows for tailoring experiences to individual learning needs and professional interests. Additionally, during my interactions with the preceptors, I found them to be exceptionally welcoming and transparent about the program’s strengths and learning opportunities, which further solidified my desire to train in this environment.
Lan Ly, PharmD
Clinical Pharmacist at Optum and Adjunct Professor at Pacific University School of Pharmacy
Can you share the most impactful or transformative experience you had during your residency year?
One of the most transformative experiences during my residency was working with a patient during their hospital-to-home transition who faced significant cost barriers to their medications. Through the transitions of care process, I reviewed their discharge medications, identified high-cost therapies that posed adherence challenges, and collaborated with the care team to identify clinically appropriate, more affordable alternatives. I also connected the patient with manufacturer assistance programs and local resources to reduce their out-of-pocket costs. Seeing the patient successfully obtain their medications, avoid readmission, and feel supported in their recovery was incredibly rewarding. This experience strengthened my commitment to addressing medication access issues proactively and highlighted the vital role pharmacists play in bridging care between settings.
In what ways has participation in the UTHSC residency program contributed to your personal and professional development, and how has it helped you move toward your long-term career aspirations?
Participation in the UTHSC Community-Based Pharmacy Residency Program has been instrumental in shaping both my personal and professional growth. The program’s diverse rotation structure allowed me to strengthen my clinical expertise across settings such as MTM, transitions of care, and direct patient care, while also enhancing my ability to navigate the operational aspects of pharmacy practice. Working alongside supportive preceptors and interprofessional teams challenged me to think critically, communicate effectively, and adapt to a variety of patient needs—including those facing access and cost barriers.
On a personal level, the program refined my leadership skills, time management, and resilience, while fostering confidence in my ability to deliver high-quality, patient-centered care. These experiences have not only prepared me to excel in community-based practice but have also laid the foundation for my long-term goal of integrating clinical service with academia, where I can contribute to both patient care and the development of future pharmacists.
Fulfilling a long-standing career goal, I began my professional journey as a Clinical Assistant Professor at Pacific University following completion of this program and a PGY2 ambulatory care residency. In this role, I collaborated with providers under a collaborative practice agreement at my clinical practice site, where I successfully established and expanded clinical services for chronic disease management.
What important insights or advice would you offer to prospective residents considering the UTHSC Community-Based Pharmacy Residency Program to help them make an informed decision?
I encourage prospective residents to embrace the program’s wide range of experiences with curiosity and confidence, and to view every question as an opportunity for growth and deeper learning. The UTHSC Community-Based Pharmacy Residency offers rotations in varied practice settings—from MTM and transitions of care to direct patient care—which allows you to tailor your learning to your interests and career goals. I’d also advise connecting with the preceptors early, as they are approachable, supportive, and transparent about the program’s expectations and opportunities. Finally, be prepared to step outside your comfort zone—this program will challenge you clinically and professionally, but you’ll leave with the skills, confidence, and adaptability to succeed in any pharmacy role.